A Resource-Congruence Model of Coping and the Development of the Coping Schemas Inventory

Abstract

For most people, living is a full-time occupation, which exacts a great deal of effort and energy. At times, life can also be a risky business, with hidden traps and lightning strikes. Considering the manifold sources of stress in modern life that cover the whole gamut from traumatic events, interpersonal conflicts, situational obstacles, existential crises to everyday hassles, one wonders why more people have not succumbed to stress-related disorders, and why so many people are still able to transcend their difficulties and lead a healthy, fulfilling life. The key to answering these questions is coping. The ability to cope is essential to surviving and thriving in a rapidly changing and highly competitive global village. That is one of the reasons why coping has become a key concept in psychology and health disciplines. This chapter is all about the art and science of coping as a major part of the larger story of human adaptation and survival. The art aspect draws from human experiences and theoretical speculations, while the science part draws from empirical studies. The chapter is primarily concerned with psychological rather than physiological and genetic coping mechanisms. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved) (from the chapter)